Today we visited with the manager of one of the coop fair trade tea estates that we work with and got a private tour of the school. This school  was built by TransFair Fair Trade Tea Program. We are happy to say that we as in you and me/our customers have contributed to this fantastic cause. So essentially first hand you can witness the difference between buying fair trade tea and non fair trade tea.

The school is fairly large. To give perspective it is similar in size to Hamilton High in Los Angeles which was the scene of 90210 in the 90’s and other tv shows. The school borders the old property which was essentially shacks.  Now the kids have a beautiful place  to learn while being surrounded by mountains, mist, a river and tea. The kids are from parents who participate in the tea coop and I was happy to hear that 30 kids a year later go on to college after graduating this school.
After spending a year in a peace corp type program in the Middle East working directly with povershed communities, schools and kids, I feel confident that I can get a strong sense on how legit a program may be running. I was happy to say that the grounds seemed positive, well kept and the kids are happy.  More to come on this with a video interview of the principal, interaction with the kids and going back to meet Tea Master Bei at the estate.

There is this thought that I’d like to share that keeps coming to mind while on this trip. Which is the exploration of Altruism…and if altruism really exists.

If not then can we feel good knowing that we are doing well while doing good? I’d like to think this is the happy medium.

Let me know what you think. Meantime take a look out for more to come.